When it comes to school uniforms for band, sports, and other extracurriculars, all outfits need to match. However, not everyone can fit into the exact same clothes. Extracurricular school alterations are necessary to ensure that the uniforms fit each student perfectly to create an inclusive environment and a cohesive look.
Why are Extracurricular School Alterations Important?
Every student deserves to look good and feel comfortable in what they wear. With extracurricular uniforms, that can be tricky. Some clubs require more than just matching t-shirts. Band uniforms, choir dresses, and football jerseys are all examples of unique outfits that have styles and fabrics that may not be suitable for everyone.
So, when getting unique school uniforms, taking measurements and making adjustments as needed is always a good idea. That way, every student can feel their best when participating in school activities.
What School Uniforms Need Alterations?
Any outfit could require alterations, but some school uniforms are unique. Outfits with multiple pieces or ones that don’t come in standard sizes are more likely to need some changes. The following are examples of popular extracurricular school uniforms that may need alterations.
Choir and Band Uniforms
While band members often wear various black clothing items during concerts, marching bands usually have complex uniforms. Students may have custom tops and bottoms that match the school colors. They may also have a fancy hat to go with it. With so many pieces, there’s a chance not everything will fit right when students first try them on.
Many school choirs also wear matching uniforms. Younger choirs might just ask students to wear a certain color (like all black), but in high school, it’s more common for advanced choirs to wear special dresses, suits, and robes. Since these are fancy clothing items, schools will likely need to take measurements and potentially alter the clothing items to fit each student.
Sports and Cheer Uniforms
Each school has custom uniforms for sports teams and cheerleaders. These outfits typically match the school’s colors and have the logo printed on them so it’s easy to see what school they’re representing. The correct sizing is crucial for team sports because the students will be very active while wearing them.
If the uniforms don’t fit right, they could be uncomfortable or restrict movement. So, it’s important for students to try them on first before having to wear them for a game. If it doesn’t fit right, scheduling extracurricular school alterations as soon as possible is a good idea.
Scouts, Clubs, and Other Extracurricular Uniforms
Sports and music aren’t the only activities that require matching uniforms. Scouts groups frequently wear vests, sashes, shirts, and other matching items during events. Other after-school activities, such as robotics clubs and art clubs may also have outfits for certain events.
Alterations should be considered for any extracurricular activity with outfits. Special uniforms can create a sense of unity among the group, and students will feel even better if their clothing items fit comfortably.
Instructor and Coach Suits and Apparel
In many cases, the adults running activities and clubs need to wear special apparel too. These outfits usually differ from the student uniforms, but they have the same colors to maintain a cohesive appearance.
Since these are usually ordered separately from the student clothing, they’re easier to customize. Teachers, coaches, and parents running these activities should be comfortable just like the students. So, providing alterations can be helpful if something doesn’t fit quite right.
Common Types of Extracurricular School Alterations
There are lots of extracurricular school alterations to consider. If someone’s outfit isn’t fitting properly, the following are common adjustments that might fix the issue.
Adjusting Blazer Fit and Sleeve Length
If the top has long sleeves, it’s important that they sit at a comfortable length. Sleeves that are too long could get in the way of the activities the student needs to perform. Sleeves that are too short could be uncomfortable and leave skin exposed. A tailor can lengthen or shorten sleeves on blazers and long sleeve shirts to ensure everyone’s sleeves are the correct length.
Alterations for Vests and Pants (Inseam, Waist, etc.)
The inner seams of vests, pants, and other clothing items can be adjusted to fit students more comfortably. You can adjust the waist of the pants or the width of different clothing items using inseams. Making these changes can ensure the clothing item isn’t too tight or too loose, helping it feel comfortable and stay on properly. If you’re unsure if an inseam adjustment is possible, just ask the tailor.
Lengthening or Shortening Skirt and Pant Hems
Finally, another one of the most popular extracurricular school alterations is hemming. Hemming refers to lengthening or shortening pants and skirts. The bottom half of a school uniform usually needs to sit at a certain length for all students. Yet, since everyone’s body type is different, it may not look the same on every person. If the length isn’t right, having a tailor hem it can make the uniforms more consistent among students.
The alteration types listed are only a few options for extracurricular uniforms. The exact changes you’ll need can vary greatly depending on the type of clothing and materials. If you’re unsure whether a clothing item can be adjusted, talk to a tailor to find out what your options are. They can also give you an estimated timeline to ensure the uniform is ready in time for school events.
Find the Perfect Tailor for Extracurricular School Alterations
If you need extracurricular school alterations, you need a tailor who’s experienced enough to take on a unique project. School outfits come in a wide range of styles, sizes, and materials, so if you can find a tailor that specializes in your type of outfit, you can feel confident that the uniform will turn out perfectly.
For anyone in the Houston area, Memorial Tailors is a great option for extracurricular school alterations. Whether it’s a jersey, blazer, or spandex-based item, we have the tools and expertise to make it fit the student perfectly. Book an appointment or contact us for more information today.
